For the first time since 2010, the Detroit Tigers will not play postseason baseball, and it appears hard-throwing right-hander Bruce Rondon wanted to get an early start to his offseason.
According to James Schmehl of MLive Media Group, Tigers manager Brad Ausmus was not happy with the effort Rondon was giving:
Per Catherine Slonksnis of BlessYouBoys.com, Tigers catcher Alex Avila said, "To be a big part of this team, you have to be here" but did not go into specifics regarding Rondon. Slonksnis also reported Alex Wilson and Neftali Feliz will share the closer's role in Rondon's absence.
Rondon's performance on the field has left a lot to be desired, as the 24-year-old sports a 5.81 ERA and 1.613 WHIP in 35 games, though his 3.12 ERA in September is his best for any month this season since his season debut in June.
The Tigers have been a disappointment this season. They were expected to compete for a spot in the postseason but currently sit in last place in the American League Central with a 69-81 record.
Whatever happened with Rondon only magnifies the problems that have plagued Detroit and makes this offseason crucial for the future of the franchise. Dave Dombrowski has already left, leaving Al Avila to put his stamp on the team this winter as general manager and executive vice president of baseball operations.
Whether or not that plan includes Rondon, especially in light of whatever happened that got him sent home, will be one of the key decisions for Avila as he tries to ensure the Tigers avoid another last-place finish after four consecutive division titles.
Stats courtesy of Baseball-Reference.com.
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